In this Best Portable Welder Review, we’ve included detailed reviews about the best portable welding machines, of course. But that’s not all – you’ll also find reviews of the best portable plasma cutters and welder generators.

Best Portable Welder Reviews: Overview

• Reviews of the Best Portable Plasma Cutting Machines
• 7 Best Portable Welder Reviews
• The 8 Best Portable Welder Generators in 2019

Best Portable Plasma Cutter Reviews

Primeweld Ct520d Welder Review
Best Cheap Portable Plasma Cutter

Now this is truly an “all in one” welder. In addition to being a great portable portable plasma cutting machine, it also works for Stick, Arc, and TIG welding processes. And as if that weren’t enough, it’s affordable and comes with a 3 year warranty. If you want a budget welding machine that does it all, the Prime Weld Ct520d could be the next best portable welder for you.

Prime Weld Ct520d Welder Specs

• Types of Welding Processes: Plasma Cutting, TIG, Stick, & Arc
• Welding Amperage Range: 50 Amps Plasma Cutter, 200 Amps for Stick and TIG
• Input Voltage: 110V @ 50Hz, 220v @ 60Hz
• Duty Cycle: 60%
• Maximum Power Efficiency: 85%
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 
• Weld Thickness: 1/2″ to 3/4″
• Weight: 35.7 lbs
• Height: 23.6″
• Length: 16.8″
• Width: 12.8″
• Best Price:  Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: 3 years

5 Reasons Why the Ct520d is the Best Portable Plasma Cutting Machine

1. Smooth Transitions: Since it smoothly transitions from AC to DC, you can switch from TIG to Stick quickly and easily.
2. Easy to Carry: Since it weighs less than 36lbs, this is one of the most portable plasma cutters on the market. Also, it features a carrying handle that’s comfortable to use and distributes weight easily.
3. Best Cheap Plasma Cutter: In comparison to other plasma cutters on the market, the Ct520d is significantly cheaper. Yet it still delivers good value for the money.
4. Best Multi Purpose Welder: Owning the Ct520d gives you a lot of freedom. Being able to switch from plasma cutting to Tig to Stick means that you can work on a big variety of projects. Also, it means you won’t find yourself splurging on multiple welders for different welding processes.
5. Great Welder Starter Kit: Owner’s Manual? Check. Electrode holder? Check. TIG welding torch? Check. Click here to see all of the accessories delivered in one handy kit.

Welding Machine Parts Included

If you want a good welder start up kit with all the essentials, Prime Weld has you covered. In the picture below, you can see all the necessary accessories included.

If you decide on the Ct520d, we suggest stocking up on extra accessories. Namely, quality plasma cutting torch consumables and the “Amazon’s Choice” 60 pack of spacer guides.

Special Considerations

Undoubtedly, this is one of the best cheap portable plasma cutting machines. But it lacks certain qualities found in expensive models, such as Miller Electric’s Spectrum 375. Most notably, the inverter design uses MOSFET transistors without premium IGBT technology.

As a result, there are two disadvantages to consider:

• Since the lack of IGBT technology means there’s no pilot arc, this isn’t suitable for slicing through dirty, rusty materials.
• Also, IGBT is generally more reliable.*

One final note is that this is a complex welding machine. In other words, this isn’t for newbies. If you’re just starting out, we recommend checking out our reviews of the best welding start up kits for beginners.

Overall Assessment: Is this the best portable welder for you?

Overall, the Ct520 is one of the best budget welders/plasma cutters on the market. If you want something budget friendly, this may be the best choice for you.

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Additional Portable Plasma Cutting Machines for Sale

If you need an ultra-reliable inverter for heavy use, or you plan on working with rusted or painted materials, here are some better alternatives:

• Everlast PowerPro 256S 250a Tig Stick Pulse 60a plasma cutter Multi Process Welder
• Lotos LTPDC2000D Plasma Cutter Tig Stick Welder 3 in 1 Combo Welding Machine
• Tweco 141i Lightweight Portable Plasma Cutter

Best Portable Welder Reviews

Hobart 500570 Stickmate 160i Stick Welder
Best Portable Stick Welder for Farm Use

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The next stick welder review is about the Hobart Stickmate 160i arc welder. This best DC stick welder is great for  use on the farm, artwork with metal, DIY projects, and home repair. If you want precise control for consistently smooth arc welds and a lightweight, portable welder, the Hobart Stickmate 160i could be the best fit for you.

Hobart Stickmate Welding Machine Specs:

• Processes: Stick (SMAW) Arc Welding
• Welding Amperage Range: 20-160 Amps with 240 volt; 20-80 amps with 120 volts
• Input Voltage: 120/220V
• Weld Thickness: up to 5/32″ inch mild steel
• Weight: 15lbs
• Height: 10.5″
• Length: 13.375″
• Width: 7.125″
• Best Price: Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: Hobart 5/3/1 Warranty

Arc Welding Machine Parts Included

When you purchase this piece of welding equipment, these are the parts included in the price:

• Sturdy electrode cable (10 feet long) with cable holder
• Work clamp and cable (10 feet long)
• A 6.5 feet long power cord containing MVP adapters for 120v and 240v

Advantages

• Premium DC welding capabilities, which is best for SMAW
• Very easy to start arc due to HotStick technology
• Spectacular price to capability ratio
• Hearty, durable, and long-lasting
• Polarity switch for easy polarity reversal

Special Considerations

• Due to play in the gauge dial over time, it can become a challenge to know exact amperage.However, the better you become at arc welding, the easier this will be.
• Another thing to be aware of is that this is a DC welder, not an AC/DC combo.

>>Check out these Stick Welding Tips for Beginners to learn how to make the best stick welds<<

Overall Assessment

If you’re looking for the best home stick welder for farm use, and you need a solid mid-tier arc welder at a great price, check out the Hobart 500570 Stickmate. It’s powerful enough for most home uses and has plenty of preferable features. The direct current capabilities make it superior for welding thin material.

>>Click here for Verified Owner Reviews on Amazon<<

Karomch ARC 200 Welder with Accessories
Best Lightweight Stick Welder for the Money

Best Portable Welding Machine Specs

• Processes: Arc welding, Stick welding
• Welding Amperage Range: 30-130A
• Duty Cycle: 80%@130A
• Input Voltage: 120V 50-60Hz
• Wire Feed Speed Range: N/A
• Weld Thickness: over 1/8”
• Weight: 7.75lbs
• Height: 7.5in
• Length: 9.3in
• Width: 3.9in
• Best Price: Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: 2 years

Welding Machine Parts Included

As the list below shows, this isn’t just a welder – you’re getting an entire kit. Here’s what else you’ll receive in your package with the Karomch:

• 110v DC Adapter with a 1.2m cable
• Owner’s Manual
• Stick Electrode Holder
• Arc Ground Clamp
• Hex Screw
• Strap

Pro-tip: Make sure to add a package of 3/32″ welding rods to your shopping cart.

The Top 3 Reasons This is the Best Portable Welder for Sale

 

• Sleek and attractive appearance
• Lightweight and compact for great portability
• Easy to operate

Special Considerations

• Incompatible with heavy duty applications
• Cannot TIG weld

Overall Assessment

This is the best portable welding machine for beginners. It’s easy to use, and it’s very affordable.

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C.M.T Pitbull Ultra-Portable 100-Amp Electric Arc Welder
Best Small Arc Welder for Sale

CMT Pitbull Welder Specs

• Processes: ARC welding, Stick welding
• Welding Amperage Range: 40-100A
• Duty Cycle: 10%@100A
• Input Voltage: 110V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: N/A
• Weld Thickness: up to 1/4”
• Weight: 26.4lbs
• Height: 9.1in
• Length: 11.8in
• Width: 6.7in
• Best Price:  Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: 1 year

Stick Welder Parts Included & Sold Separately

It’s a small kit for a small welder. When this welder arrives at your door step, you’ll get:

• Leads
• Clamp
• Electrode Holder

Again, it’s always a good idea to add welding rod sticks to your shopping card.

3 Reasons This is the Best Portable Welder for a Tight Budget

• Notably, the CMT Pitbull is one of the cheapest welders on the market.
• Since it weighs about 26lbs, this takes the idea of “portability” to a whole new level.
• Also, this rig has the honorable label of “Amazon’s Choice,” with nearly 300 positive reviews to support it.

Special Considerations

• If you like lots of features, the CMT Pitbull isn’t for you. This is a simple machine, which makes it great for beginners who want to start with something simple.

Overall Assessment

Are you on a budget? Do you want one of the lightest welding machines on the market? If you answered yes to both of those questions, we strongly recommend the CMT Pitbull portable welder.

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Hitbox MIG Welder Inverter 200Amp 220V DC Wire Welder
Best Portable MIG Welder Reviews

This inverter-based welder is compatible with mild steel, stainless steel, and various other metals. Also, all you need to do is add the right torch and gas and you’re good to go for TIG welding.

Best Portable Welder Specs

• Processes: MIG Welding, Arc Welding, TIG welding
• Welding Amperage Range: 30-200A
• Duty Cycle: 40%@200A
• Input Voltage: 220V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: adjustable

  

• Weld Thickness: up to 0.045”
• Weight: 12.35lbs
• Height: 12.8in
• Length: 17.6in
• Width: 7.2in

Best Portable Welder Parts Sold Separately

• TIG torch (if you want the option of TIG welding)
• Argon gas

Hitbox Mig Welder: Advantages

• At a little over 12 lbs, this best home mig welder is lightweight.
• Variety of safety features, such as overheating protection
• Low power consumption
• It’s important to note that Hitbox delivers excellent customer service.
• As an inverter welder, it is much lighter than other transformer-based welders, making it easy to transport. It’s also great for beginners because it’s ready to use right out of the box.
• Since this is a best 220v mig welder, the power enables you to do more than 110v welding machines
• Additionally, if you also want to TIG weld, it’s compatible with TIG welding torches and argon gas canisters. Except for industrial work, the HitBox MIG200 is a fantastic, affordable MIG welder.

Special Considerations

There are a couple of considerations to take into account before making that final buying decision. First, this isn’t designed for heavy duty work. Second, it’s incompatible with 120V outlets.

Overall Assessment

Overall, the HitBox MIG200 is a one of the most-loved portable welders on the market. It’s versatile, has a variety of safety features, and is very reasonably priced.

K2278-1 Handy Core MIG Welder
Lincoln Electric Handy Mig Best Portable Welder Review

Commonly, consumers recognize Lincoln Electric as a very respectable brand. And, for those looking for the best cheap MIG welder reviews, the Handy Core could be your new best friend.

Lincoln Electric Welder Specs

• Processes: MIG Welding
• Welding Amperage Range: 35-88A
• Duty Cycle: 20%@70A
• Input Voltage: 115V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: infinite
• Weld Thickness: up to 1/8”
• Weight: 45lbs
• Height: 11in
• Length: 15in
• Width: 10in
• Best Price: Check Current Price
• Warranty: 12 months

MIG Welder Parts Included

• Welding gun/cable assembly
• 10 ft Work cable/clamp
• 1-lb. spool of .035in. flux-cored wire
• 2 Contact tips
• Welding hand shield with #10 filter plate and clear glass cover plate
• Chipping hammer/brush

Parts Sold Separately: Utility Cart

Handy Core Portable Mig Welder Review: Advantages

• Very easy to set up
• Compact and relatively lightweight
• Good quality and durability
• 120V outlet-friendly
• Perfect for small projects

Special Considerations

• Not ideal for heavier projects
• No gas option

Overall Assessment

Lincoln Electric is one of the most trusted brands out there, and the K2278-1 Handy Core MIG welder doesn’t disappoint.

It takes mere moments to set up, making it an excellent option for beginners. Once it’s up and running, its ready to handle most light, do-it-yourself jobs around the home, shop, or farm. It’s not the most powerful MIG welder out there, but it’s a great hobby welder.

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Forney Easy Weld 298 Best Portable Welder
Forney Welder Review

In comparison to the Forney Easy Weld 299, the Forney Easy Weld 298 is very similar. Except for that it’s much, much lighter. And since we want something that isn’t going to slow us down or simply be annoying to carry, this difference in weight is a huge asset.

(Click here for a detailed review of the Forney Easy Weld 299.)

Forney Welder Specs

• Types of Welding Processes: Arc Welding; Stick welding (Has TIG welding capabilities with an extra accessory)

  

• Welding Amperage Range: 90A
• Duty Cycle: 20%@80A
• Input Voltage: 120V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: N/A
• Weld Thickness: 16ga up to 5/16”
• Weight: 7.5lbs
• Height: 11.5in
• Length: 15in
• Width: 7in
• Forney Welder Best Price: Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: 6 month warranty

Forney Welder Review: Advantages

• At less than 8lbs, this is about as lightweight as they get.
• Works with most home outlets
• Extremely affordable welding machine price

Special Considerations

• According to some reviewers, it’s tricky to get Stick Welder Rods started with this particular machine.
• Remember, not all of our special considerations are negative. On the contrary, this is just a helpful reminder: consider buying the TIG torch if you want to turn this into a 3 in 1 welding machine.

Overall Assessment

In comparison to the K2278-1 Handy Core MIG welder, this performs a lot of the same functions, yet it costs a little less. It’s only slightly less durable, so it’s fine for home welders. As you’ll see in the next best portable welder review, the Forney 298 is a cut above cheaper models like the Go Plus Mig 130.

In other words, this is an excellent mid-price portable welder for sale.

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Go Plus Mig 130 Welder Flux Core Automatic Wire Machine
Best Portable Mig Welder Under $200

Now this is the best portable welding machine for welders on a strict budget. Although it’s a far cry from a premium welding machine, it’s a fraction of the cost. Plus, it’s easy to use, making it one of the best welding machines for beginners.

Above all, this budget-friendly MIG welder is lightweight and easy to transport. In this particular review, that earns it triple the bonus points.

Go Plus Welding Machine Specs

• Processes: MIG welding & Flux Core welding
• Colors: Orange or Black
• Welding Amperage Range: 50-120A
• Duty Cycle: 15%@105A
• Input Voltage: 110V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: Infinite
• Weld Thickness: up to 1/4”
• Weight:  35lbs
• Height: 11.4in
• Length: 13.4in
• Width: 7.3in
• Welding Machine Best Price: Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: 90 day

Welder Parts Included

• MIG Welding gun
• Wire
• Free Welding mask
• Brush

3 Reasons This is the Best Portable Welder for Sale

• Lightweight, easy to travel with
• Four idiot-proof amperage settings
• Comes with extras which are great for getting started

Special Considerations

• First, wire is always live in use, so you must be hyper vigilant for safety
• And to be frank, the duty cycle isn’t anything to write home about. But for less than $100, this is a steal of a deal.

Best Portable Welder Review:
Overall Assessment

If you’re looking for a no-nonsense Mig welding starter kit, the Go Plus 130 is a great deal. For example, just look at that secret accessory apartment pictured above. Who says cheap welding machines can’t be awesome?

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Hot Max ARC100 100 Amp DC Best Portable Welder
Lightest Stick Welder (Lightest Welder)

At just a little over 6lbs, this is definitely one of the best portable welding machines on the market. The wheels and extended handle make it stand out from its competitors – in a good way. If you prefer pulling/pushing over carrying a welder by hand, then the Hot Max might just be your new best friend.

Welder Specs

• Processes: ARC welding, Stick welding
• Welding Amperage Range: 30-85A
• Duty Cycle:  60%@85A
• Input Voltage: 120V AC
• Wire Feed Speed Range: N/A
• Weld Thickness: up to 1/8”
• Weight: 6.5lbs
• Height: 12in
• Length: 15.5in
• Width: 8.9in
• Best Price: Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: 2 year on Machine; 90 Days for Cable Assemblies, Parts, and Labor

Welder Parts List

• Welder
• 100A electrode holder with 6 foot cable
• 100A ground clamp with 6 foot cable.
• 5-1/2’ grounded power cable with standard plug

4 Reasons This is the Best Portable Welder for Sale

• Incredibly lightweight
• Smooth arc for great welds
• Great power and portability
• Great for small projects

Special Considerations

• Users report cooling fan issues
• Doesn’t come with a shield
• Short leads

Overall Assessment

For the lightest stick welder on the market, the HotMax ARC 100 packs quite a punch! This is one of the most portable welders out there at only 6.5lbs, so you can take it with you almost anywhere. Users frequently report smooth arcs and quality welds, making it excellent for small projects around the home. If you need maximum portability and decent power output the HotMax ARC 100 is a strong contender.

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Best Portable Welder Generators for Sale

In the table below, check out 4 of our top picks for portable welder generators.

Sources:

*Chainsaw Journal: Best Plasma Cutter
Plasma Cutter Expert